SEARCY, ARK. - Educational assistance for displaced students from schools in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama is available at Harding University. Students who were admitted to or enrolled in a four-year college or university that has been closed due to Hurricane Katrina may gain admission at Harding this fall and join classes that are already in progress.

Though classes began at Harding Aug. 23, faculty members will work with students to bring them up to date on previously assigned coursework.

The Harding Admissions Office will work with students on an individual basis to determine payment and financial aid plans. Although space is not unlimited, the University has freed up several apartments that will be available to affected students.

Harding is a private university recognized by Peterson’s Competitive Colleges and annually ranked by U.S.News & World Report as one of the South’s best universities. It offers 10 undergraduate degrees in more than 90 academic areas. These students will be joining 5,900 students from all 50 states and more than 40 foreign countries.

Displaced students should contact Admissions at (800) 477-4407 or e-mail admissions@harding.edu. They should register by Sept. 9 in order to begin classes the week of Sept. 12.